HumaneWatch Rallies Support for America's Underfunded Local Shelters On December 4th

WASHINGTON, Dec. 1, 2010 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Today HumaneWatch, a project of the nonprofit Center for Consumer Freedom (CCF), announced its first annual "Shelter Supply Saturday" to be observed on December 4. The event encourages Americans to donate much-needed supplies to their local humane society or other animal shelter. These organizations often receive only local community support, and only a very tiny number of them receive any financial help from the Humane Society of the United States.

"Shelter Supply Saturday" is a great way for citizens to show their appreciation and support of America's shelters who often struggle to make ends meet in this difficult economy. Supporters are asked to deliver supplies directly to pet shelters on Saturday. Suggested items include paper towels, cleaning supplies, office supplies, blankets, towels, and building supplies for the construction of fences and dog runs.

"America's pet shelters provide a tremendous service to their communities," said David Martosko, CCF's Director of Research and the editor of HumaneWatch.org. "But they lack significant financial support. Shelters need basic supplies to continue their great work, and not enough people are stepping up to the plate. The key is to give locally, not to big national organizations that don't do much hands-on work."

To participate on Saturday, December 4, simply bring needed supplies to any local humane society, animal shelter, or pet rescue. HumaneWatch has provided an easy-to-print greeting card to attach to your contribution. It can be downloaded here: http://tinyurl.com/shelters2010.

Martosko added: "Many Americans donate to the Humane Society of the United States with the belief that their money will trickle down to local humane societies. But HSUS typically gives less than one percent of its $100 million budget to hands-on pet shelters."

For more information or to arrange an interview, please visit www.HumaneWatch.org or call Allison Miller at 202.463.7112

The Center for Consumer Freedom is a nonprofit watchdog organization that informs the public about the activities of tax-exempt activist groups. It is supported by American consumers, business organizations, and foundations.